What Happened This Year 2019
People Who Died in 2019
Sergio Obeso Rivera
Ordained as a priest in 1959, served in various roles within the Church, including as the Bishop of Tehuantepec. Elevated to the rank of Cardinal in 2003 by Pope John Paul II, presiding over the Archdiocese of Xalapa. Worked extensively on promoting church initiatives and outreach programs. Contributed to the Second Vatican Council and was active in several papal conclaves.
Continue ReadingDJ Arafat
A prominent figure in Ivorian music, this artist significantly shaped the Coupé-Décalé genre, which blends rhythm and dance with elements of traditional African music. Rising to prominence in the early 2000s, the artist produced numerous hits that resonated with fans across West Africa. The artist's lively performances and charismatic presence helped foster a vibrant nightlife culture in Côte d'Ivoire. Collaborations with other artists further solidified the artist's place in contemporary African music. An untimely death in 2019 shocked fans at the age of 33, but the influence on the music scene continues to be felt.
Continue ReadingPolly Farmer
Played Australian rules football primarily for Geelong Football Club in the Victorian Football League (VFL). Competed during the 1950s and 1960s, earning recognition for exceptional skills and contributions to the team. Transitioned into coaching after retirement, influencing the development of the sport. Inducted into the Australian Football Hall of Fame, celebrating significant achievements as a player and coach.
Continue ReadingRichard Williams
An animator, director, and screenwriter with a career spanning several decades. Featured as a leading figure in animation, contributed to the creation of a rich blend of traditional and innovative techniques. Achieved recognition for directing the animated sequences in the film 'Who Framed Roger Rabbit,' which integrated live action with animation in groundbreaking ways. Authored 'The Animator's Survival Kit,' a significant resource for aspiring animators, detailing principles of animation and storytelling. Won multiple Academy Awards for advancements in the field of animation.
Continue ReadingPeter Fonda
An actor, director, producer, and screenwriter, contributed significantly to American cinema. Debuted in the late 1950s, with significant roles in films throughout the 1960s and 1970s. Co-wrote and starred in the film “Easy Rider”, which became a landmark in the countercultural movement of the era. Directed films including “The Hired Hand” and “Flesh and Blood”, showcasing talents beyond acting. Continued to act in various films and television series until later in life.
Continue ReadingLars Larsen
Founded JYSK, a global retail chain specializing in mattresses, curtains, and home furniture. Established the first JYSK store in Aarhus, Denmark in 1979. Expanded the business internationally, opening thousands of stores across Europe and beyond. Worked actively in promoting the brand's Scandinavian design ethos and affordable pricing.
Continue ReadingCelso Piña
An accomplished singer, composer, and arranger, this musician specialized in cumbia music and became a prominent figure in the genre. Transitioning from a local artist in Monterrey to a national sensation, he blended traditional cumbia with various musical styles, creating a unique sound that gained wide popularity. The artist collaborated with numerous musicians and recorded many albums throughout his career. His innovative approach helped to revive and enhance interest in cumbia music in Mexico and beyond.
Continue ReadingFerdinand Piëch
An accomplished automotive engineer and businessman, contributions to the automotive industry include leadership roles at Audi and Volkswagen. Oversaw development of the Audi Quattro, a groundbreaking all-wheel-drive vehicle that revolutionized performance standards. Served as Chairman of the Volkswagen Group, guiding the company through significant expansion and innovation. Advocated for engineering excellence, emphasizing performance and quality in vehicle design.
Continue ReadingValerie Harper
An actress recognized for a significant role in television, particularly for portraying Rhoda Morgenstern on 'The Mary Tyler Moore Show' and its spin-off, 'Rhoda'. Harper attended the New York City High School of Performing Arts and later pursued a career in acting through stage performances and television appearances. She earned multiple accolades for her work in the industry, including four Primetime Emmy Awards. Harper also starred in several television films and had appearances in series like 'The Twilight Zone' and 'Dancing with the Stars'.
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